Description
Crispy, golden chicken thighs coated in a bright lemon and Parmesan breadcrumb crust. Juicy inside, crunchy outside, and bursting with citrusy aroma and savory depth.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing rack
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Set a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet and lightly brush or spray the rack with olive oil.
- In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, lemon zest, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss to mix evenly.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place the beaten eggs in a shallow dish.
- Dip each thigh in the eggs, let excess drip off, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture until well coated on all sides.
- Arrange coated thighs skin side up on the prepared rack. Drizzle or lightly brush the tops with the olive oil.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the crust is deep golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
- Remove from the oven. Immediately drizzle the thighs with the lemon juice and an extra pinch of zest if desired. Rest 5 minutes, then serve hot.
Notes
- For extra crunch, use panko or lightly toast regular breadcrumbs before coating.
- Do not overcrowd the pan, space promotes better crisping.
- Resting the chicken for 5 minutes keeps juices inside for a tender bite.
- Always use fresh lemon zest for the brightest citrus flavor.
- An oven-safe rack prevents steaming and helps the crust stay crisp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: lemon crusted chicken thighs, baked chicken thighs, crispy lemon chicken, parmesan chicken, lemon chicken recipe, easy weeknight chicken, oven baked chicken, family dinner